National Sports

CALGARY — On a night where the spotlight shone on new Calgary Flames stars Nazem Kadri and Jacob Markstrom in their first pre-season appearances, it was journeyman Michael Stone who had the big night.

TORONTO — Blue Jays fan Frankie Lasagna grabbed a baseball glove from his garage before heading down to Rogers Centre for Wednesday's game against the New York Yankees.

Toronto Blue Jays reliever Tim Mayza immediately knew once his 94.5 m.p.h sinker hit Aaron Judge's bat that he had surrendered the historic 61st home run to the New York Yankees slugger on Wednesday.

TORONTO — Matt Murray had a solid night on the ice and a conversation off it he won't soon forget. A couple of his teammates, meanwhile, demonstrated untapped skills that were needed in a pinch.

TORONTO — With the American League East title in the bag, Yankees manager Aaron Boone has more flexibility to tinker with his lineup and get players rested ahead of the post-season. Some of his regulars got the night off Wednesday against Toronto.

VICTORIA — Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse says Chris Boucher is one of the NBA's most unique players.

OSTRAVA, Czechia — Canada reached the final of the International Para Hockey Cup with a 4-1 semifinal win over the host Czechs on Wednesday.

OTTAWA — The Ottawa Redblacks will be without Canadian receiver Nate Behar and American tackle Ucambre Williams when they visit the B.C. Lions on Friday night.

TORONTO — The Toronto Argonauts could be without one of their top defenders Saturday when they visit the Calgary Stampeders. American cornerback Jamal Peters didn't practise Wednesday for the second straight day due to a head ailment.

VANCOUVER — The National Hockey League says it is monitoring the family court proceedings of Vancouver Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini, who has denied accusations by ex-wife Tali'ah that he abused their children.